Cambridge Police have warned local residents to pay extra attention to their valuables this week after two robberies in the city were linked to an individual operating in the area.

In the first robbery, a man tried to make off with a woman’s handbag on Sturton Street on Monday evening, then another woman was pushed off her bike in Abbey Walk and threatened with a knife later the same evening.

The individual concerned is described as white, aged 30 to 40 years old and wearing a light coloured, hooded sports jacket.

A Police spokesperson explained: “We are linking these attempted robberies and would appeal to anyone who recognises the description of the offender or who witnessed the incident to contact police.”

“While these were isolated incidents, I would urge people to be careful when out after dark, stick to well-lit areas and walk with friends where possible.”

Anyone with any information should call DC Ashley Ryan on 0345 456 4564 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.